Over-current Protection Assembly with Single Rotating Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-contact over-current protection devices require complex mechanisms for each contact pair, leading to increased cost, device footprint, and operational inefficiency, as well as variance in opening times and geometry, which complicates arc voltage equalization across series contacts.
Innovation Solution
A simple and efficient over-current protection assembly with a mechanism featuring a single operating element that moves to break multiple electrical paths between sets of individual contacts, arranged in a voltage divider configuration, allowing for simultaneous opening and closing of main and arc contacts, reducing the need for complex linkages and minimizing transient recovery voltage stress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple main and/or arcing contacts are provided in known over-current protection devices, then the current handling capability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to requiring separate opening/closing mechanisms for each contact pair
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple contact pairs (main contacts and arc contacts) onto a single rotating arm, eliminating the need for separate opening/closing mechanisms for each contact pair. This single mechanism approach reduces device complexity while maintaining the current handling capability of multiple contacts.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating arm serves multiple functions simultaneously: it carries multiple contact pairs, provides the opening/closing motion for all contacts through a single mechanism, and enables both main current carrying and arc suppression functions. This multi-functionality reduces the overall mechanism complexity.
2Power
If multiple contact pairs are used in known devices, then the current handling capability is improved, but the device footprint increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests multiple contact pairs along the length of a single rotating arm, arranging them in a compact linear sequence. This nesting approach allows multiple contacts to share the same mechanical support structure, reducing the overall device footprint while maintaining current handling capability.
3Reliability
If extra linkages are added to equalize arc voltages across series contacts, then the voltage distribution is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs equalizing inductors that automatically equalize arc voltages across series contacts through their inherent electrical properties, without requiring additional mechanical linkages or adjustment mechanisms. This self-service approach improves voltage distribution while avoiding increased mechanical complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables effective high-voltage and high-current interruption with reduced operational inefficiency, lower transient recovery voltage, and minimized welding, allowing for a compact and efficient design suitable for higher voltage applications.
Implementation Method 1
if an extremely high over-current condition occurs (e.g., a short circuit), electromagnetic forces are generated between the fixed and moveable main contact pair. These electromagnetic forces repel the movable main contact away from the fixed main contact.
Implementation Method 2
the first and second sets of individual contacts are arranged in a voltage divider configuration, wherein the voltage divider divides among the individual contacts a total voltage that is present across the first and second sets of individual contacts
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are directed to an over-current protection assembly that includes a mechanism having a first operating element and a second operating element. The first operating element is coupled to a first set of individual contacts. The second operating element is coupled to a second set of individual contacts. A single movement of the first operating element relative to the second operating element breaks a plurality of electrical contacts or paths between the first set of individual contacts and the second set of individual contacts.